Lenworth Henry

Gilbert the Mighty Hurricane: a Jamaican Experience Lenworth Henry

After numerous near hits, Jamaicans had become desensitized to hurricanes and as Gilbert approached, the author was not alone in that sea of denial. Unlike other hurricanes, Gilbert signaled its intent from its inception, and it did not alter course, but strengthened dramatically, as it headed straight for Jamaica. The book describes the chaotic rush for supplies, the suspension of normal daily activities, media coverage, the desertion of cities and favorite hangouts, and more wrenching; a supernatural encounter that served to confirm the worst. It depicts split-second scenes of environmental transformation and thrill, even in disaster. There was that intermittent hope of survival that had to be altered as often as the house absorbed successive, vicious jolts. There were the sounds that could not be analyzed, but some of which were even hauntingly melodious. Never to be forgotten were those feelings of loneliness and isolation, the looks of fear and the signs of sinners praying, presumably from the heart. Gratitude for survival could not outweigh the feelings of anger and dejection at the monumental loss.